SPOTTED BELLFLOWER

Campanula punctata

This lovely hardy stoloniferous perennial is one of the most vigorous in the genus. Seed-grown plants spread quickly, even in their first season, and bloom in the second year, producing a magical profusion of large pendulous white tubular bells delicately spotted with violet. So beautiful.

Spotted Bellflower prefers to grow in moist soils, especially given full sun. Where they are happy the plants will grow to nearly 3' in all directions, and in time spread by both roots and seeds to form large colonies. In dry soils plants will be smaller and less apt to travel, though the flowers are just as striking. Ours tolerate shale in the shade of a mulberry tree. Typically blooming in June and July, ours bloomed again in autumn after a shearing and lots of rain.

Sow these seeds indoors. Press seeds into moist soil, barely dusting with fine vermiculite. Mist carefully and cover with plastic to maintain moisture. Kept cool (around 60°F) and moist in bright light, seeds may begin to germinate in 2-3 weeks. If no germination in 3 weeks, pop the pot into the refrigerator for 4 weeks before returning to room temperature in bright light. Take care to keep soil moist! Avoid excessive heat, as this will inhibit germination. Pots may also be placed in a sheltered and semi-shaded location outdoors in late winter or very early spring. Seeds will begin to germinate during the first warm days of spring.

Prick out seedlings to grow on in individual 3" pots in bright light. Transplant into the garden in spring or autumn. Either way, plants can be expected to bloom in the second year. Water frequently and mulch generously to maintain soil moisture. Though plants tolerate browsing, they are not deerproof and should be protected if you hope to see flowers.

Though typically white, some plants may have flowers blushed with rose. Even fewer will feature flowers that are fully pink or violet. All are beautiful and highly recommended.

Packet contains at least 100 seeds.